Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

look someone up and down

idiom
/lʊk ˈsʌm.wʌn ʌp ənd daʊn/
Definition
To visually examine someone from head to toe, often with judgment or scrutiny.
Examples
  • She looked him up and down, assessing his outfit for the party.
  • When he entered the room, everyone looked him up and down to see if he fit in.
  • He felt uncomfortable as the interviewer looked him up and down before starting the questions.
Meaning
This phrase implies a thorough assessment or evaluation of someone’s appearance, usually to form an opinion about them.
Synonyms
  • gaze critically
  • appraise
  • survey